Beef and Livestock Studies (A.A.S.)

Overview

The degree in Beef and Livestock Studies is geared towards providing a solid base in the renewed interest and increase of the production and marketing of meat animals in the Northeast. Students have ample opportunities to gain hands-on experience in handling various livestock using SUNY Cobleskill’s year-round maintained breeding and market animal resources in the herds/flocks of beef, sheep, meat goats and swine, and seasonally with rabbits and poultry. Applied knowledge related to care and management, feeding, breeding, selection, evaluations, marketing and meat animal processing through the College’s USADA Meats Processing Facility are highlights of major field courses.

The changing profile of the New York animal livestock industry toward increased grassland farming and the enlargement of marketing facilities in the Northeast have greatly influenced livestock production. Students are trained in practical, hands-on situations using SUNY Cobleskill’s cow/calf, stocker and feeder programs as well as the College’s sheep and goat flock. Applied knowledge in livestock production related to selection, care and management, nutrition, breeding, health and opportunities in the industry are emphasized. Modern technology has created a demand for trained specialists in this branch of livestock management and the agribusiness field.